JAMMU, : To commemorate the birth centenary of the eminent Kashmiri, Hindi and Urdu writer Pt. Kailash Nath Kaul popularly known as Maikash Kashmiri, the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL), in collaboration with the Maikash Kashmiri Literary Society, organized a captivating musical evening at K.L. Saigal Hall, Jammu, on Friday. The event brought together literary enthusiasts, artists, scholars and admirers of the legendary writer to celebrate his rich literary and cultural legacy through music and discourse.
Hon’ble MLA Shri Arvind Gupta was the Chief Guest on the occasion. In his address, he paid glowing tributes to Maikash Kashmiri, describing him as one of the finest literary voices whose writings transcended linguistic and cultural boundaries. He said that the literary and musical heritage of great personalities like Maikash Kashmiri should be preserved and promoted among the younger generation, as such initiatives strengthen the cultural fabric of society and inspire future generations to remain connected with their roots. Recalling his childhood days as a student of Diwan Badrinath (DBN) School, he fondly remembered the institution’s rich cultural environment and appreciated the participation of its students in paying homage to the legendary writer through music.
Earlier, Ms. Sonali Arun Gupta, Additional Secretary, Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages, welcomed the dignitaries, artists and audience on behalf of the Academy. She highlighted the Academy’s commitment to preserving and promoting the rich literary, artistic and cultural traditions of Jammu and Kashmir. She remarked that commemorating the birth centenary of literary icons such as Maikash Kashmiri is not merely a tribute to an individual but a celebration of the timeless values of literature, creativity and cultural harmony that continue to inspire society.
The programme commenced with an introduction to the life and literary contributions of Maikash Kashmiri by Ms. Niharika Sher, a member of the Maikash Kashmiri Literary Society. This was followed by an insightful paper presented by Shri Deepak Buthki, who eloquently highlighted the multifaceted personality of Maikash Kashmiri and his remarkable contribution to Kashmiri, Hindi and Urdu literature.
Adding a melodious beginning to the evening, students of Diwan Badrinath School, Jammu, presented a group song based on the writings of Maikash Kashmiri, which was warmly appreciated by the audience.
The highlight of the evening was a mesmerizing musical presentation by renowned singers Kashif Nizami and Shabab Nizami, who enthralled the audience with soulful renditions of Maikash Kashmiri’s ghazals and songs. Their performance beautifully reflected the lyrical depth and emotional richness of the poet’s compositions. The musical recital was ably supported by Azhar Shakil on violin, Zia Khan on tabla and Kazim Ali on sarangi, whose accompaniment added further brilliance to the programme.
Following the musical presentation, the participating artists and the students of Diwan Badrinath School were felicitated by the Chief Guest, Shri Arvind Gupta, in recognition of their outstanding performances. On the occasion, Shri Arvind Gupta also honoured eminent singer Seema Anil Saigal, Kashif Nizami and Shabab Nizami by presenting them with traditional shawls in recognition of their distinguished contribution to music. As a token of gratitude, the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages and Maikash Kashmiri Literary Society presented a memento to the Hon’ble MLA for gracing the occasion and encouraging the promotion of the region’s rich literary and cultural heritage.
The proceedings of the event were conducted by noted writer and broadcaster Dr. Liaqat Jafri, who skilfully connected the various segments of the programme while highlighting significant milestones in the life and literary journey of Maikash Kashmiri.
The programme concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Colonel Sanjeev Kaul, son of Maikash Kashmiri, who expressed gratitude to the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages, the artists, scholars and all those present for joining in celebrating the enduring literary and musical legacy of his father.
